Designing Effective Climate Change Education Professional Development: Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities for K-12 Teachers

• In Event: Preparing and supporting teachers for climate and sustainability education

Abstract

Although climate change education (CCE) is urgent, teachers often feel unprepared to address its complex and multifaceted nature. Despite the critical need for professional development (PD) to equip teachers, we know little about what makes PD for CCE effective. This study explores the Mid-Winter Climate Institute (MWI), a large-scale PD program for K-12 teachers in New York City. Using qualitative methods, we investigate how the MWI aligns with core PD principles and identify additional necessary elements. Findings reveal that while the MWI incorporates common PD components, it also points to the need for stronger emotional processing and greater institutional support for CCE implementation. This study offers valuable insights for improving PD programs and supporting teachers in addressing complex issues.

Authors

• Merav Hayak, Columbia University; Achva Academic College;Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

• Oren Pizmony-Levy, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Jooyoung Jeon, Teachers College, Columbia University